Radioactive waste sampling for characterisation - A Bayesian upgrade

Presented in this paper is a methodology for combining a Bayesian statistical approach with Data Quality Objectives (a structured decision-making method) to provide increased levels of confidence in analytical data when approaching a waste boundary. Development of sampling and analysis plans for the characterisation of radioactive waste often use a simple, one pass statistical approach as underpinning for the sampling schedule. Using a Bayesian statistical approach introduces the concept of Prior information giving an adaptive sample strategy based on previous knowledge. This aligns more closely with the iterative approach demanded of the most commonly used structured decision-making tool in this area (Data Quality Objectives) and the potential to provide a more fully underpinned justification than the more traditional statistical approach. The approach described has been developed in a UK regulatory context but is translated to a waste stream from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station to demonstrate how the methodology can be applied in this context to support decision making regarding the ultimate disposal option for radioactive waste in a more global context.